As one of the primary functions of progesterone is working to help stabilize the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, when progesterone levels are low a woman`s menstrual cycle is thrown into disarray and she may experience irregular or heavy bleeding. In addition to this fundamental symptom that indicates low progesterone levels, there are both psychological as well as physical symptoms that a woman may experience. Keep reading in order to learn more about this array of unpleasant symptoms.
Psychological Symptoms of Low Progesterone
Anxiety
Oftentimes anxiety is caused by low serotonin. Progesterone helps to keep serotonin levels from dropping too low, thus it is vital to maintain a healthy level of progesterone to maintain a healthy emotional wellbeing.
Irritability
Low progesterone can result in mood disorders such as irritability. A person experiencing irritability can experience quick excitability or fretfulness, testiness and petulance.
Sleep Disturbances
It is not uncommon for sleeping patterns to change as levels of progesterone (known as the calming hormone) decline. Since drowsiness increases as temperature declines (making it easier to fall asleep), women who experience hot flashes and night sweats have poorer quality sleep than women who do not.
Mood Swings
As progesterone is the mood leveler, a mood swing may incur as progesterone levels drop. Typical symptoms of a menopausal mood swing include emotional fluctuations (a rapid alternation of a person's emotional state between periods of euphoria and depression), irritability, sadness, and even sudden bouts of tears.
Memory Problems
When Progesterone levels drop, impaired memory and reasoning skills may be apparent in menopausal women.
In addition to the psychological symptoms outlined above, there are physical symptoms as well. These are outlined below.
Physical Symptoms of Low Progesterone Levels
Fluid Accumulation in Extremities
Low levels of progesterone paired with hormonal fluctuations can lead to fluid retention. This can cause edema (an accumulation of an excessive amount of watery fluid in cells, tissues, or serous cavities), transient weight gain, and breast fullness and pain.
Headaches
Headaches can be a symptom of low progesterone levels, worsened by estrogen dominance (in relation to progesterone.)
Premenstrual Syndrome
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a complex of physical and emotional changes experienced before the onset of menstrual flow.
Progesterone can be broken down into two components that have opposite effects on mood. Women with PMS may produce less of the component that tends to reduce anxiety and more of the component that tends to increase anxiety.
Difficulty With Conception
Women who have trouble conceiving or have suffered a miscarriage in the early months of pregnancy may have a progesterone deficiency. In order to sustain a healthy uterine lining a certain amount of progesterone must be produced. If a sufficient level is not maintained, it is difficult for a fertilized egg to ever implant or to stay implanted, thus a miscarriage ensues.
Fortunately there is no reason for any woman to live with these unpleasant symptoms, as treatment options are available. Click on the following link to uncover more information about
treatments for progesterone imbalance.
